Working together to ensure the safe management of the river, our harbour office runs like a well-oiled machine.
We spoke to Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Administration Assistant Amy Previll to hear how her role fits into the overall working of the team.
What does your job role involve?
I carry out the admin duties for VTS in the Harbour Office. Along with normal day to day tasks, my role includes handling the ships documentation which is a legal requirement for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), liaising with ships agents regarding vessels ETAs, and creating and maintaining visits within our bespoke management system.
What is your favourite part about the job?
As someone who had never worked in the maritime industry, typing away and seeing a bulk carrier that is nearly 200 metres long pass your window definitely makes for an interesting day!
This is a great team to work with and I love how every day in the office is completely different. The coffee machine is alright too I suppose!
What attracted you to the role?
It stood out because it’s not your everyday admin role. I loved being shown in my interview how the harbour office works constantly around the clock to keep a safe and efficient river running 365 days a year. In short, it’s a role I couldn’t turn down!
Tell us about your journey to become VTS Administration Assistant
After leaving school I started an apprenticeship in admin before going to work for a road haulage company where I continued my studies. Now, I’ve been given a great opportunity by PD Ports to carry on studying alongside work and I will sit my Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) exams in November 2020.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
My spare time usually involves getting outdoors with the kids and our dogs, and of course the occasional glass of wine with the girls!
To find out more about our role as Statutory Harbour Authority, visit https://www.pdports.co.uk/marine-information/statutory-harbour-authority/
